Former All Blacks utility back Craig Innes believes the Crusaders should ditch any plan to experiement with Israel Dagg playing centre this season, saying it is of "great concern" for a player he regards as the best in the world.

Crusaders' attack coach Aaron Mauger confirmed yesterday that Dagg is a serious contender for the midfield this season after a cameo there during the 38-21 defeat to the Highlanders in a pre-season match in Oamaru on Friday.

He is in the No 15 shirt against the Waratahs in Sydney tomorrow.

The Press spoke to several former All Blacks "utility" backs yesterday, notably Leon MacDonald, a world-class fullback who switched to centre in the 2003 World Cup.

Some said the move may reap benefits in years to come for not only Dagg but also the All Backs but Innes wasn't one of them.

"I read that news and it was quite a surprise I'll be honest," he said.

"I'm concerned and wondering why you would want to mess with a guy who I think is the best fullback in the world.

"I don't think there is any doubting that he has the ability to play in that position. It's just why you would want to do it?

"Surely, there must be others down there who could play in that position."

Innes began his career for the All Blacks as an outside back and later switched to the midfield.

"I can't speak for Israel. He might be all for the idea and may have been considering it for some time now, but sometimes players need to make a stand.

"I can see it from their [Crusaders'] perspective; they want to have the best team possible on the paddock each week. But I would be quite concerned if it did eventuate."

All Blacks great Jeff Wilson said the move was a chance for the Crusaders' camp to take away the element of surprise should injury force their hand.

"To me it just seems like they are letting people know who is likely to be their backup centre should something happen to Robbie Fruean during the season.

"But it would be a shame to see Israel without the space he is usually afforded at fullback and I think it's pretty easy to see that he wants to stay in that position."

Former Crusader and All Black Leon MacDonald believes should Todd Blackadder and his sidekicks decide to turn arguably the world's best fullback into a centre that Dagg has all the trimmings for it to be successful.